Host-Independent VHF-UHF Active Antenna System

ABSTRACT

An antenna system for use with a media device is provided. The antenna system includes a multi-mode active antenna configurable to operate in a plurality of modes. Each mode of the plurality of has a distinct radiation pattern. The antenna system includes a supplemental tuner that is separate from a primary tuner associated with the media device. The antenna system includes a switching device movable between at least two positions to selectively couple the active antenna to the supplemental tuner. When the switching device is in a first position, the active antenna is coupled to the supplemental tuner. When the switching device is in a second position, the active antenna is coupled to the media device.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/522,111, filed on Jun. 20, 2017, titled“HOST-INDEPENDENT VHF-UHF ACTIVE ANTENNA SYSTEM,” which is incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to antenna systems for use withmedia devices (e.g., television), for instance, in the VHF and/or UHFbands.

BACKGROUND

Antennas for television reception, otherwise known as over the air (OTA)antennas, are well known and routinely used to receive televisionbroadcast signals. Televisions generally include a built-in tuner or anexternal tuner (e.g., set top box). The OTA antenna can be connected tothe tuner (e.g., built-in or external). In some instances, the OTAantenna can be configured to amplify OTA signals. These OTA antenna areuseful in rural settings where incoming signals require amplification.

Although cable television services have displaced the need for OTAantennas, consumers are now opting to replace cable television serviceswith more cost-effective internet-based streaming services, such as Huluand Netflix. However, one perceived disadvantage of internet-basedstreaming services relates to the inability to watch local programming(e.g., local news) provided by local broadcast stations. Since OTAantennas can receive OTA signals associated with local programming,consumers of internet-based streaming services are opting to invest inOTA antennas.

SUMMARY

Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will beset forth in part in the following description, or may be learned fromthe description, or may be learned through practice of the embodiments.

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an antennasystem for use with a media device. The antenna system includes amulti-mode active antenna. The multi-mode active antenna is configurableto operate in a plurality of modes. Each mode of the plurality of modeshas a distinct radiation pattern. The antenna system further includes asupplemental tuner and a switching device. The switching device ismovable between at least two positions. When the switching device is ina first position, the active antenna is coupled to the supplementaltuner. When the switching device is in a second position, the activeantenna is coupled to the media device.

Another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a methodfor configuring the antenna system for use with a media device. Themethod can include coupling the active antenna to the supplemental tunervia the switching device. The method can include obtaining one or moremetrics while the active antenna is coupled to the supplemental tuner.The one or more metrics can be indicative of performance of the activeantenna in each of the plurality of modes. The method can includedetermining a selected operating mode for the active antenna based, atleast in part, on the one or more metrics. The method can includeconfiguring the active antenna to operate in the selected operatingmode.

Yet another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to anactive antenna. The active antenna can include a substrate. The activeantenna can include a first antenna positioned on the substrate adjacentto a ground plane. The first antenna can be configured for multipleresonances in the UHF and VHF bands. The active antenna can include afirst parasitic element positioned adjacent to the first antenna. Theactive antenna can include a first switch coupled between the firstparasitic element and the ground plane. The first switch can beconfigured to open-circuit, short-circuit, or reactively load the firstparasitic element. The active antenna can include a second antennapositioned on the substrate adjacent to the ground plane. The secondantenna can be configured for multiple resonances in the UHF and VHFbands. The active antenna can include a second parasitic elementpositioned adjacent to the second antenna. The active antenna caninclude a second switch coupled between the second parasitic element andthe ground plane. The second switch can be configured to open-circuit,short-circuit, or reactively load the second parasitic element. In someimplementations, an arm of the first antenna can be connected to an armof the second antenna.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodimentswill become better understood with reference to the followingdescription and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrateembodiments of the present disclosure and, together with thedescription, serve to explain the related principles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Detailed discussion of embodiments directed to one of ordinary skill inthe art are set forth in the specification, which makes reference to theappended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an active antenna according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 depicts an active antenna according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3A depicts a plan view of an active antenna according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of an active antenna according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of an active antenna according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 depicts a multi-port switch according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 6 depicts an antenna system according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 7 depicts a database implemented to determine a selected mode ofoperation for an active antenna of an antenna system according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 depicts a method for determining a selected mode of operation foran active antenna of an antenna system according to example embodimentsof the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 depicts a block diagram of an antenna system according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 depicts a block diagram of an antenna system according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 depicts a block diagram of a controller according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 depicts a flow diagram of a method for configuring an antennasystem for use with a media device according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure; and

FIG. 13 depicts a schematic view of an active antenna according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments, one or moreexamples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example isprovided by way of explanation of the embodiments, not limitation of thepresent disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in theart that various modifications and variations can be made to theembodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the presentdisclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as part ofone embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment. Thus, it is intended that aspects of the presentdisclosure cover such modifications and variations.

Example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an antennasystem for use with a media device, such as a television. The antennasystem can include a multi-mode active antenna configurable to operatein a plurality of modes associated with the VHF and/or UHF bands. Eachmode of the plurality of modes can have a distinct radiation pattern.The antenna system can include a supplemental tuner that is separatefrom a primary tuner associated with the media device. The antennasystem can include a switching device movable between at least twopositions. When the switching device is in a first position, themulti-mode active antenna is coupled to the supplemental tuner. When theswitching device is in a second position, the multi-mode antenna iscoupled to the media device. As will be discussed below in more detail,the active antenna can be configured in a selected mode (e.g., optimalmode or near optimal mode) of operation when switch is in the firstposition (e.g., the active antenna is coupled to the supplementaltuner).

In some implementations, the antenna system includes one or morecontrollers. The one or more controllers can be configured to obtain oneor more metrics while the switching device is in the first position. Theone or more metrics can indicate performance of the active antenna ineach of the plurality of modes. The one or more controllers can befurther configured to determine a selected mode of operation for theactive antenna based, at least in part, on the one or more metrics. Theone or more controllers can be further configured to configure theactive antenna to operate in the selected mode of operation.

In some implementations, the one or more controllers can be configuredto determine a channel quality indicator (CQI) for one or more channelsdetected while the antenna is operating in a given mode. The one or morecontrollers can be further configured to determine a mode score for eachof the plurality of modes. More specifically, the mode score for a givenmode can be based, at least in part, on the CQI. The controller(s) canbe configured to determine the selected mode of operation based, atleast in part, on the mode scores determined for each of the pluralityof modes. For instance, the selected mode of operation can correspond tothe mode having the highest mode score.

The antenna system according to the present disclosure provides numeroustechnical benefits. For instance, the active antenna can be selectivelycoupled to the supplemental tuner to determine a desired mode ofoperation for the active antenna without accessing one or more signalsgenerated by a primary tuner associated with the media device. In thismanner, the antenna system of the present disclosure can be used withany type of media device.

Referring now to the FIGS., FIG. 1 depicts an active UHF/VHF antennaformed on a substrate 100. The active UHF/VHF antenna includes anantenna element 102 a positioned adjacent to a ground plane 101. In someimplementations, the antenna element 102 a can be coupled to one or moreof a first conductor 102 b, a second conductor 102 c, and a thirdconductor 102 d. As shown, a first component 103 a can be positionedbetween the antenna element 102 a and the first conductor 102 b. In someimplementations, the first component 103 a can include a first filter(e.g., high pass filter) configured to pass VHF1 and VHF2 signals to thefirst conductor 102 b.

In some implementations, a second component 103 b can be disposedbetween the first conductor 102 b and the second conductor 102 c. Morespecifically, the second component 103 b can include a second filter(e.g., high pass filter) configured to pass VHF1 signals. In someimplementations, a third component 103 c can be disposed between thesecond conductor 102 c and the third conductor 102 d. More specifically,the third component 103 c can include a third filter. In this manner,the antenna element 102 a, the first conductor 102 b, the second andsubsequent conductors 102 c and 102 d can form an antenna with multipleresonances. More specifically, up to “n” conductors can each be linkedwith a component, plurality of components, or filter disposed betweenthe n^(th) conductor and (n−1)^(th) conductor. The n^(th) component(s)or filter being configured to pass one or more desired signals and blockunwanted signals.

In some implementations, the third conductor 102 d is coupled to theground plane 101 at a first multi-port switch 107 a. In this manner,each port of the first multi-port switch 107 a can be configured as anopen-circuit, a short-circuit, or can be configured to couple a reactiveload to the third conductor 102 d. As a result, the first multi-portswitch 107 a is capable of adjusting a reactance associated with theantenna with multiple resonances, and/or can be used to open/short thethird conductor to ground. The first multi-port switch 107 a provides afirst means for actively controlling the antenna function.

In some implementations, each of the first, second, and third filters103 a, 103 b, and 103 c, respectively, can be configured as a passivereactance component or “passive component” such as a capacitor orinductor. Alternatively, each of the first, second, and third filters103 a, 103 b, and 103 c can be configured as a circuit comprising two ormore passive components, such as an LC circuit (inductor and capacitor).In some implementations, each of the first, second, and third filters103 a, 103 b, and 103 c can be configured as a filter, such as a lowpass filter. Those with skill in the art will be able to appreciate thevarious components and arrangements of components which will filter outsignals at each of the “filters” 103 a thru 103 c.

In some implementations, the first filter 103 a can include an LCcircuit. Alternatively or additionally, the second filter 103 b caninclude a low pass filter. In some implementations, the third filter 103c can include a passive inductor. In yet another example, one or more ofthe first, second, and third filter 103 a, 103 b, 103 c can include atunable component, such as a tunable capacitor, tunable inductor, orother tunable component known by those having skill in the art.

In some implementations, the antenna of FIG. 1 can include a parasiticelement 105 positioned adjacent to the antenna element 102 a. Morespecifically, the parasitic element 105 can be coupled to the groundplane 101 via a second multi-port switch 107 b. The second multi-portswitch 107 b can be configured to open-circuit, short-circuit, orreactively load the parasitic element. These changes to the reactiveloading of the parasitic element 105 can induce a radiation patternchange about the antenna element and conductors extending therefrom. Inthis regard, the antenna assembly as a whole (antenna element,conductors, parasitic element, ground plane, etc.) can be configured foractive beam steering for changing a radiation pattern mode of theantenna.

In some implementations, the antenna element 102 a is further shown witha bypass junction 106 for providing a path for high frequency signals. Afourth filter 103 d is provided to block low frequency signals. Asshown, the fourth filter 103 d is shown with a passive capacitor.However, it should be appreciated that a tunable capacitor can besimilarly implemented between the feed 104 and the bypass junction 106.

In some implementations, each of the first multi-port switch 107 a;second multi-port switch 107 b, and the feed 104 may be coupled to amicroprocessor 110 via transmission lines 108 extending therebetween asshown. The microprocessor 110 can be configured to communicate one ormore signals to each of the first and second multi-port switches 107 a,107 b for controlling a switch state or activating switch ports.Additionally, the microprocessor 110 can be configured to control amatching circuit associated with the antenna feed. The matching circuitmay be incorporated into the microprocessor 110. Alternatively, thematching circuit can be positioned outside the processor 100. In someimplementations, the matching circuit includes one or a plurality ofpassive and/or active reactance components, such as capacitors,inductors, and tunable variants thereof as known by those with skill inthe art. As will be discussed in more detail, the processor 110 can beconfigured to determine a mode for configuring the active UHF/VHFantenna. Additionally, the processor 110 can configured to sendassociated control signals to configure the antenna in the desired mode.

In some implementations, the microprocessor 110 is generally coupled toa television receiver/baseband 111 via one or more control lines 109. Asa user selects a channel, the receiver 111 communicates the desiredchannel information to the processor 110. In example embodiments, theprocessor 110 can be configured to determine a selected mode ofoperation for the antenna element 102 a. Additionally, the processor 110can be configured to configure the antenna element 102 a in the selectedmode of operation. In example embodiments, the processor 110 candetermine the selected mode of operation based, at least in part, on oneor more metrics obtained while the antenna element 102 a operates ineach of the plurality of modes. For example, the metric(s) can include areceived signal strength indicator (RSSI) value associated withbroadcast signals the antenna element 102 a receives while operating ineach of the plurality of modes.

Referring now to FIG. 2, an active UHF/VHF antenna can include a groundplane 201, a first antenna element 202 a, a second antenna element 202b, a first parasitic element 205 a, and a second parasitic element 205b. As shown, each of the ground plane 201, the first antenna element 202a, the second antenna element 202 b, the first parasitic element 205 a,and the second parasitic element 205 b can be formed on a substrate 200.It should be appreciated that the substrate 200 can be comprised of anysuitable material. For example, the substrate 200 can be comprised of arigid FR4 substrate. As another example, the substrate 200 can becomprised of a flexible polyimide.

In some implementations, the ground plane 201 is formed at a corner ofthe substrate 200. As shown, the first antenna element 202 a can extendvertically from the ground plane 201 in a first direction (out of thepage). Alternatively or additionally, the second antenna element 202 bcan extend horizontally from the ground plane 201 in a second direction.More specifically, the first antenna element 202 a and the secondantenna element 202 b can be oriented perpendicular to one another.

The first antenna element 202 a and the second antenna element 202 b canbe configured so that the first antenna element 202 a is horizontallypolarized, and the second antenna element 202 b is vertically polarized.The first and second antenna elements 202 a, 202 b can be furtherconfigured as mirror opposites. Alternatively, the first and secondantenna elements 202 a, 202 b can be configured to oppose one another.

In some implementations, the first antenna element 202 a can include afirst bypass junction 206 a extending between two points along a firstbent portion of the first antenna element 202 a. Alternatively oradditionally, the second antenna element 202 b can include a secondbypass junction 206 b extending between two points along a first bentportion of the second antenna element 202 b. A passive or tunablereactive component can be implemented at either or both of the first andsecond bypass junctions 206 a, 206 b.

In some implementations, the ground plane 201 can include a first groundplane extension 204 a positioned adjacent to the first antenna element202 a. Alternatively or additionally, the ground plane 201 can include asecond ground plane extension 204 b positioned adjacent to the secondantenna element 202 b. Each of the first and second ground planeextensions 204 a, 204 b can be configured to impedance match theadjacent antenna structures.

In some implementations, a two-port switch 212 can be implemented withconnection to each of the first and second antenna elements 202 a; 202b, respectively. In this manner, various modes of operation may beprovided. For instance, the two-port switch 212 can be configured toprovide a first mode utilizing the first antenna element 202 a, a secondmode utilizing the second antenna element 202 b, and a third modeutilizing a combined signal of both the first and second antennaelements 202 a and 202 b.

In some implementations, a first parasitic element 205 a is formed by afirst portion 205 a-1 and a second portion 205 a-2. More specifically, afirst filter 203 a can be disposed between the first and second portions205 a-1, 205 a-2 of the first parasitic element 205 a. As shown, thefirst parasitic element 205 a can be positioned adjacent to the firstantenna element 202 a. Alternatively or additionally, a first multi-portswitch 207 a can be coupled between the first parasitic element 205 aand the ground plane 201. The first multi-port switch 207 a can beconfigured to open-circuit, short-circuit, and/or reactively load thefirst parasitic element 205 a.

In some implementations, a second parasitic element 205 b is formed by afirst portion 205 b-1 and a second portion 205 b-2. More specifically, asecond filter 203 b can be disposed between the first and secondportions 205 b-1, 205 b-2 of the second parasitic element 205 b. Asshown, the second parasitic element 205 b can be positioned adjacent tothe second antenna element 202 b. In some implementations, a secondmulti-port switch 207 b can be coupled between the second parasiticelement 205 b and the ground plane 201. The second multi-port switch 207b can be configured to open-circuit, short-circuit, and/or reactivelyload the second parasitic element 205 b.

In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 2, the first and secondparasitic elements 205 a, 205 b can be arranged to oppose one another.However, it should be appreciated that the first and second parasiticelements 205 a, 205 b oriented in any suitable manner without deviatingfrom the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown, each of the first and second multi-port switches 207 a; 207 bcan be coupled to a microprocessor 210 via control lines 208 extendingtherebetween. In some implementations, the microprocessor 210 can beconfigured to couple with a television receiver. In a similar manner, auser can select a channel from the television control, and thetelevision receiver or related chipset can then send a request to themicroprocessor 210 of the antenna. The microprocessor 210 can beconfigured to determine the selected mode of operation for the antennaand configure each of the multi-port switches 207 a, 207 b and othertunable components (if any) so that the antenna operates in the selectedmode of operation.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-B, a three-dimensional antenna assemblyincludes a first planar substrate portion 300 a having a first activeUHF/VHF antenna 301 a thereon, and a second planar substrate portion 300b having a second active UHF/VHF antenna 301 b thereon. The first activeUHF/VHF antenna 301 a can include any structure as described herein, ora modification thereof. However, for illustrative purposes, the firstactive antenna 301 a is shown as having a first antenna element 301 adisposed adjacent to a first ground plane 302. The first ground plane302 is shown with an optional first ground plane extension 304 forimpedance matching the first active antenna 301 a. In some embodiments,signals can be communicated between the first antenna element 301 a andthe receiver 111 (FIG. 1) via a first feed 303. As shown, a first bypassjunction 306 can provide a distinct path for high-frequency signals.Alternatively or additionally, a first parasitic element 305 with afirst section 305 a and a second section 305 b is shown. The firstsection 305 a may optionally be separated from the second section 305 bby one or more first passive and/or active components, or first filters(not shown).

In some implementations, the first parasitic element 305 can be coupledto the first ground plane at a first multi-port switch 307 a. The firstmulti-port switch 307 a can comprise any number of ports, or “n”-ports,wherein each port is individually selected to open-circuit, shortcircuit, or reactively load the first parasitic element. A firstmicroprocessor 310 is shown coupled to the first multi-port switch 307a. The first microprocessor 310 can receive signals from the baseband111 (FIG. 1) or a receiver circuit in a media device. More specifically,the signals can include information related to the user-selectedchannel. In some implementations, the first microprocessor 310 can beconfigured to determine a selected mode of the first UHF/VHF antenna 301a for receiving the desired channel. The first microprocessor 310 can beconfigured to sample all possible modes of the first active antenna 301a and select the mode exhibiting the optimal metric, such as RSSI, etc.Once the mode is selected, control signals can be communicated to thefirst multi-port switch 307 to configure the first active antenna 301 ain the desired mode.

The second planar substrate 300 b is shown extending out of the page inFIG. 3A, and is configured orthogonal with respect to the first planarsubstrate 300 a. FIG. 3B further shows the antenna of FIG. 3A from aperspective view in which a second active UHF/VHF antenna 301 b ispositioned on the second planar substrate 300 b. In someimplementations, the first microprocessor 310 can be used to controlboth the first and second active antennas 301 a and 301 b.Alternatively, multiple microprocessors may be implemented to controlthe first and second antennas 301 a and 301 b. In some embodiments, thesecond antenna 301 b may be oriented perpendicular with regard to thefirst antenna 301 a. It should be appreciated, however, that the firstantenna 301 a and the second antenna 301 b can oriented such that anysuitable angle is defined therebetween. It should also be appreciatedthat the second antenna 301 b may be a mirror image of the first antenna301 a.

In some embodiments, the first and second antennas 301 a, 301 b mayoriented in the same manner. It should be appreciated that any change inorientation of the second antenna 301 a with respect to the firstantenna 301 a may be similarly implemented as shown in FIG. 4. It shouldalso be appreciated that the radiation pattern of the first antenna 301a, the second antenna 301 b, or a combination of the first and secondantennas 301 a, 301 b may be used for reception of OTA signals.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an example of a multi-port switch 107 isprovided according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.Although the multi-port switch 107 depicted in FIG. 5 includes fiveoutput ports 502, 503, 504, 505 and 506, it should be appreciated thatthe multi-port switch 107 can include more or fewer output ports.

The multi-port switch includes switch 107 coupled to ground 501. Theswitch 107 can be configured to short circuit via output port 502,reactively load via output ports 503; 504; 505; and 506, or open circuitat port 507. Port 503 shows a passive capacitor for reactively loadingthe antenna feature coupled to the multi-port switch 107. Port 504 showsa passive inductor for reactively loading the antenna feature coupled tothe multi-port switch 107. Port 505 shows a tunable capacitor forreactively loading the antenna feature coupled to the multi-port switch107. Port 506 shows a plurality of passive components for reactivelyloading the antenna feature coupled to the switch 107. Control inputsignals from the microprocessor are provided to the multi-port switchfor configuring the switch with the selected port or path for placingthe antenna in a desired mode. The switch and reactive component(s) maybe configured as a circuit on the antenna substrate, or may beimplemented in a unitary module, as shown.

An active antenna system will generally require some feedback in orderto determine an antenna mode such that the active antenna can beconfigured in a desired mode. The feedback is generally processed withan algorithm and/or controller designed to identify the quality ofsignal in various antenna modes, such that a preferred mode may beselected for operating the active antenna.

The feedback provided to the controller of the antenna system caninclude a signal metric, including a channel quality indicator (CQI),such as, for example, receive power (RP), signal to noise ratio (SNR),signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR), magnitude error ratio(MER), error vector magnitude (EVM), bit error rate (BER), block errorrate (BLER), or packet error rate (PER), or other metrics known in theart.

Although signals generated by a tuner associated with a media device(e.g., television) can be sampled, doing so would necessitate use of oneor more electrical components of the media device, such as one or moreprocessors. Alternatively or additionally, the processors onboard themedia device may require special programming in order to access thesignals generated by the tuner. As an example, the active antenna mayneed to be coupled to the tuner. Additionally, the active antenna mayneed to be specially designed to accommodate the tuner. However, sincedifferent consumers would likely own different television models,matching of components, software and the like would be undesirable.Furthermore, although knowledge of a specific channel being viewed maybe desirable, it would be difficult to produce an active antenna capableof plug and play use with generally any television unit, since, eachtelevision unit contains different circuitry and requirements.

However, the present disclosure provides a novel solution to theaforementioned problem. That is, a tuner can be implemented in theantenna system (herein “external tuner”) that is distinct from the tunerenclosed within the television unit. In this regard, the external tuneris housed in the antenna system and is used to sample the OTA signals.Thus, the first tuner that is enclosed within the television unit, andthe second tuner (external tuner) that is disposed in the antennasystem, are each configured to receive the OTA signals; however theexternal tuner uses the signals received to sample a metric using analgorithm to determine a selected mode for configuring the activeantenna.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of an antenna system 600 foruse with a media device 610 is provided according to example embodimentsof the present disclosure. As shown, the antenna system 600 can includea multi-mode active antenna 602 configurable to operate in a pluralityof modes. More specifically, each mode of the plurality of modes canhave a distinct radiation pattern. In this manner, the active antenna602 can be configured to operate in a mode that is optimal for viewinglocal programming. It should be appreciated that the antenna system 600can be configured for use with any television unit or set top box and isnot specific to any particular model. It should also be appreciated thatthe active antenna 602 of FIG. 6 can be configured as any one of theantennas discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1-4, or FIG. 13.

In some implementations, the active antenna 602 can be coupled to RFcircuitry 609 of the antenna system 600. The RF circuitry 609 caninclude one or more circuits configured for impedance matching, modeselection of the active antenna 602, or a combination thereof. Asdiscussed above with reference to FIGS. 1 through 4, active antennasgenerally include one or more parasitic elements. In someimplementations, the parasitic element and/or a radiating element of theactive antenna can be coupled to one or more components, such asswitches, inductors, capacitors, tunable inductors, tunable capacitors,or solid state devices. Although these components can generally beincluded within the RF circuitry 609, it should be appreciated that thecomponents may be located elsewhere in the system 600.

In some implementations, a signal (e.g., OTA signal) received by theactive antenna 602 can be provided to a low noise amplifier (LNA) 608 ofthe system 600. In this manner, the signal can be amplified. As shown,the LNA 608 can provide the amplified signal to a directional coupler607 of the system 600. The directional coupler 607 can be configured tobifurcate the amplified signal into a first bifurcated signal 611 and asecond bifurcated signal 612. As shown, the first bifurcated signal 611can be provided to a media device 610, such as a television. Morespecifically, the first bifurcated signal 611 can be provided to aprimary tuner associated with the media device 610. In someimplementations, the primary tuner can be integral with the media device610. Alternatively, the primary turner can be a separate device that iscommunicatively coupled to the media device 610 via a wired (e.g.,coaxial) or wireless communication link.

In some implementations, the second bifurcated signal 612 can beprovided to a supplemental tuner 606 of the system 600. It should beappreciated that the supplemental tuner 606 is separate from the primarytuner discussed above. In some implementations, the supplemental tuner606 can provide one or more signals to a supplemental demodulator 605 ofthe system 600. The supplemental demodulator 605 can be configured todemodulate the signals received from the supplemental tuner 606. In thismanner, the supplemental demodulator 605 can extract information (e.g.,video data) associated with the signal(s).

In some implementations, the system 600 includes a controller 604. Asshown, the controller 604 can be communicatively coupled to at least oneof the RF circuitry 609, the LNA 608, the supplemental tuner 606, andthe supplemental demodulator 605 via one or more control lines 603. Insome implementations, the controller 604 can be configured to processsignals output by at least one of the LNA 608, the supplemental tuner606, and the supplemental demodulator 605. More specifically, thecontroller 604 can process the signals to determine a metric indicativeof the quality of the signals. As will be discussed below in moredetail, the controller 604 can be configured to determine a selectedmode of operation for the active antenna 602 based, at least in part, onthe metric. Additionally, the controller 604 can configure the activeantenna 602 to operate in the selected mode. More specifically, thecontroller 604 can provide one or more control signals to the RFcircuitry 609 via the control lines 603.

In some implementations, the active antenna 602 can initially beconfigured in a first mode of the plurality of modes. While the activeantenna 602 is configured in the first mode, the active antenna 602 canreceive one or more OTA signals that can be provided to the media device610 and the controller 604. More specifically, the controller 604 canreceive the signals via at least one of the LNA 608, the supplementaltuner 606, and the supplemental demodulator 605. In this manner, thecontroller 604 can obtain one or more metrics indicative of performanceof the active antenna 602 while operating in the first mode. In someimplementations, the controller 604 can obtain the metric(s) for each ofthe plurality of modes. In this manner, the controller 604 can determinewhich of the modes is optimal or near optimal and can configure theactive antenna 602 accordingly.

In some implementations, the selected mode may be desired that achievesthe maximum CQI for the most popular broadcast channels in a particularregion, for example ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, etc. In another implementation,a mode may be desired which provides optimal CQI for the most channelsreceived by the OTA signals. In yet another implementation, modeselection can be based, at least in part, on the number of channelsdetected within a given mode that have a CQI above a predeterminedthreshold value. As will be discussed below in more detail, thecontroller 604 can implement various techniques to determine theselected mode of operation for the active antenna 602.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the controller 604 (FIG. 6) can be configuredto populate a look-up table or database 700 with information or “data”indicative of performance of the active antenna 602 while operating ineach of the plurality of modes. As will be discussed below in moredetail, the controller 604 can determine a selected mode of operationfor the active antenna 602 based, at least in part, on the data includedin the database 700.

In some implementations, the database 700 can include a detection status710 for channel numbers 1 through M. It should be appreciated that M isvariable indicative of the total number of channels detected by theactive antenna. For example, if the active antenna can detect a total ofsix different channels across the different modes of operation, thevariable M would be assigned the numerical value “6” in the database700. As shown in FIG. 7, the active antenna 602 (FIG. 6) cannot detectchannel 1. Accordingly, the detection status 710 for channel 1 is No. Incontrast, the active antenna 602 (FIG. 6) can detect channels 2, 3, andM. Accordingly, the detection status for channels 2, 3, and M is Yes.

In some implementations, the controller 604 (FIG. 6) can determine a CQIfor a given channel (e.g., channels 1 through M) and a given mode (e.g.,modes 1 through N) of the plurality of modes in which the active antenna602 can operate. It should be appreciated that N is a variableindicative of the total number of modes. For example, if the activeantenna 602 can operate in four different modes, the variable N would beassigned the numerical value “4”. It should be appreciated that thecontroller 604 (FIG. 6) can determine the CQI based, at least in part,on the metric(s) obtained via signals from at least one of the LNA 608,the supplemental tuner 606, and the supplemental demodulator 605. Morespecifically, the metric(s) can include at least one of SNR and SINR. Asshown in FIG. 7, the controller 604 (FIG. 6) can determine the CQI forchannel 2 is equal to 28 when the active antenna 602 is operating inMode 1. In contrast, the controller 604 can determine the CQI forchannel 2 is equal to 29 when the active antenna 602 is operating inMode 2.

In some implementations, a weighting factor 720 can be applied tochannels 1 through M. For example, the weighting factor 720 can bedetermined based on the detection status 710 of a given channel. Forinstance, channels that cannot be detected, such as channel 1, can beassigned a weighting factor of zero. In this manner, channels whosedetection status 710 is “No” cannot impact a mode score S_(n) that isdetermined for each mode (e.g., Modes 1 through N). As another example,the weighting factor 720 can vary depending on a magnitude of the CQIfor a given channel. For instance, the CQI for channel 2 is greater thanchannel 3. As such, the weighting factor 720 assigned to channel 2 canbe less than the weighting factor 720 assigned to channel 3. Morespecifically, the channel 2 can be assigned a weighting factor 720 of aquarter of a point (e.g., 0.25), whereas channel 3 can be assigned aweighting factor 720 of one (e.g., 1). In this manner, channel 3 can beweighted more heavily than channel 3 when the mode score S_(n) iscalculated for each of the modes (e.g., Modes 1 through N).

In some implementations, the mode score S_(n) for each of the modes(e.g., Modes 1 through N) can be determined as shown in Equation 1:

S _(n)=ρ_(m=1) ^(M)(w _(m)×CQI_(m,n))  Equation 1

In the above formula, w_(m) corresponds to the weighting factor assignedto channels 1 through M. Additionally, CQI_(m,n) corresponds to thechannel quality indicator for a given channel m and mode n. Accordingly,the mode score S_(n) for the first mode can be calculated as shown belowin Equation 2:

S _(n)=(w ₁*CQI_(1,1))+(w ₂*CQI_(2,1))+(w ₃*CQI_(3,1))+ . . . +(w_(M)*CQI_(1,N))  Equation 2

In some implementations, the selected mode of operation for the activeantenna 602 (FIG. 6) can correspond to the mode having the highest modescore S_(n). More specifically, the selected mode n_(selected) can bedetermined as shown below in Equation 3:

n _(selected)=arg max_(n)(S _(n))  Equation 3

Referring now to FIG. 8, a flow diagram of a method 800 for determiningthe selected mode of operation for an active antenna of antenna systemis provided according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.The method 800 may be implemented using, for instance, the antennasystem discussed above with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 8 depicts stepsperformed in a particular order for purposes of illustration anddiscussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosuresprovided herein, will understand that various steps of the method 800may be adapted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously ormodified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the presentdisclosure.

At (802), the method 800 includes configuring the active antenna in oneof N modes of operation. Additionally, a mode counter variable n can beassigned a value of 1. In some implementations, the controller cangenerate one or more control actions associated with configuring theactive antenna in one of the modes. More specifically, the controllercan communicate one or more commands over the control lines to the RFcircuitry of the antenna system.

At (804), the method 800 includes determining a CQI for each channel(e.g., channels 1 through M) that is detected while the active antennais operating in mode n. In some implementations, the controller can beconfigured to determine the CQI for each channel based, at least inpart, on the one or more metrics associated with the signals receivedfrom at least one of the LNA, the supplemental tuner, and thesupplemental decoder. More specifically, the metric(s) can include atleast one of SNR and SINR.

At (806), the method 800 includes assigning a weighing factor to eachchannel. As discussed above, the weighting factor can be assigned basedon a variety of factors. For instance, the weighting factor for achannel that is not detected by the active antenna can be assigned aweighting factor of zero. Alternatively or additionally, channels thatare detected by the active antenna can be assigned a weighting factorbased, at least in part, on the CQI value determined at (804). Forinstance, a weighting factor assigned to a channel having a CQI that isgreater than a minimum value by a predetermined amount can be differentthan a weighting factor assigned to a channel having a CQI that is notgreater than the minimum value by minimum amount. In some embodiments,the minimum value can correspond to a minimum CQI that is required todecode the signals and view content being broadcast on the channel.

At (808), the method 800 includes determining a mode score for thecurrent mode in which the active antenna is operating. In someimplementations, the controller can implement Equation 1 discussed abovewith reference to FIG. 7. In this manner, the controller can determinemode score for mode n.

At (810), the method 800 includes determining whether the mode variablecounter is less than a total number of modes N in which the activeantenna can operate. If n is less than N, the method proceeds to (812).However, if n is greater than or equal to N, the method proceeds to(816).

At (812), the method 800 includes incrementing a mode variable countern. For instance, if the current mode of the active antenna correspondsto the first mode, the mode variable counter can be assigned a valueof 1. Accordingly, at (810), the mode variable counter can beincremented according to Equation 4 shown below:

n=n+1  Equation 4

At (814), the method 800 includes reconfiguring the active antennabased, at least in part, on the mode counter variable. As an example, ifthe mode counter variable is equal to 2, the controller can reconfigurethe active antenna to a second mode of the N different modes. In thismanner, the current mode of the active antenna can be changed from thefirst mode to the second mode. Once the current mode of the activeantenna has been reconfigured, the method reverts to (804).

At (816), the method 800 includes configuring the active antenna tooperate in the selected operating mode. In some implementations, theselected operating mode can correspond to the mode (e.g., 1 through N)with the highest mode score determined at (808). Once the active antennais configured in the selected operating mode, the method proceeds to(818).

At (818), the method 800 includes entering a standby mode until theoccurrence of a detected event. In some implementations, the detectedevent can occur when a predetermined amount time lapses since the activeantenna was configured in the selected operating mode at (816).Alternatively or additionally, the detected event can occur when metricsobtained from the signals received from at least one of the LNA, thesupplemental tuner, and the supplemental demodulator indicate an amountof interference associated with the signals exceeds a threshold value.In some implementations, the detected event can occur when thecontroller detects a change in position (e.g., GPS coordinates) of theactive antenna. It should be appreciated that the method 800 reverts to(802) in response to the occurrence of a detected event.

In some implementations, the detected event can occur when user-input isreceived via an input device. More specifically, the input device caninclude one or more mechanical interface elements (e.g., push-button) inoperative communication with the controller. Alternatively oradditionally, the input device can include a mobile device (e.g.,smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.) that is communicatively coupled to thecontroller via any suitable wired or wireless communication link.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a block diagram of an antenna system 600 isprovided according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Theantenna system 600 depicted in FIG. 9 is configured in substantially thesame manner as the antenna system 600 depicted in FIG. 6. For instance,the antenna system 600 in FIG. 9 can include a directional coupler 607and a supplemental tuner 606. Accordingly, the same or similar referencenumbers may be used to describe the same or similar components. However,as will be discussed below in more detail, the antenna system 600 ofFIG. 9 differs from the antenna system 600 of FIG. 6 in that the antennasystem 600 of FIG. 9 includes a Bluetooth module 920.

As shown, a bidirectional communication link 930 exists between theantenna system 600 and a mobile device 940. In some implementations, themobile device 940 includes a Bluetooth module 942. In this manner,information can be exchanged between the antenna system 600 and themobile device 940 over the bidirectional communication link 930. In someimplementations, information exchanged over the bidirectionalcommunication link 930 can include a zip code indicative of a currentlocation of the antenna system 600. Alternatively or additionally,information exchanged over the bidirectional communication link 930 caninclude one or more channels that are available at the antenna location.In some implementations, information exchanged over the bidirectionalcommunication link 930 can include a specific subset of TV channels. Itshould be appreciated that the antenna system 600 can be optimized toaccommodate the specific subset of TV channels.

Although the bidirectional communication link 930 is discussed withreference to Bluetooth, it should be appreciated that the bidirectionalcommunication link 930 can be implemented using any suitablecommunication technology. Example communication technologies caninclude, for instance, near-field communication, Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE,802.11), Wi-Fi Direct (for peer-to-peer communication), Z-Wave, Zigbee,Halow, cellular communication, LTE, low-power wide area networking,VSAT, Ethernet, etc.

In some implementations, the antenna system 600 uses a built-in tunerand demodulator to collect metrics (e.g., SNR, SINR) that can be used bythe controller 604 to determine a selected mode of operation for theactive antenna 602. More specifically, the selected mode of operationcan optimize reception across all or some of the VHF/UHF broadcasttelevision channels in an area (e.g., region) in which the antennasystem 600 is being used.

It should be appreciated that the antenna system 600 of FIG. 9 does notrequire direct feedback from the media device 910. Because the antennasystem 600 does not have direct knowledge of the channel(s) that arebeing watched on the media device 910, the antenna system 600 of FIG. 9can select the best radiation pattern across all or some channels basedon the location of the antenna system 600 and the quality of associatedwireless channels. In some implementations, the antenna system 600 ofFIG. 9 can be placed indoors, such as on a wall or a window in the home.Alternatively, the antenna system 600 can be placed outdoors, such asmounted on the roof of the home.

In some embodiments, the controller 604 can periodically re-scan thebroadcast channels to pick the best pattern based on its localscattering environment and the angle of arrival of the signals from thebroadcast TV towers. The controller 604 can issue a re-scan based onmovement or changes to its local scattering environment. Alternativelyor additionally, the controller 604 can issue a re-scan based ondetection of local interference, such as FM radio, microwave ovens, LTEcellular radios, or other interfering sources in its local environment.During the mode scanning and selection process, the controller may storea lookup table for each of its radiation modes across all channels.

In some implementations, the controller 604 can re-scan the modes ofoperation in response to user-input received via an input device. Morespecifically, the input device can include one or more mechanicalinterface elements (e.g., push-button) in operative communication withthe controller 604. Alternatively or additionally, the input device caninclude the mobile device 940 that is communicatively coupled to thecontroller via the bidirectional communication link 930.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a block diagram of an antenna system 1000 fora media device 1100 is provided according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure. The antenna system 1000 can include a multi-modeactive antenna 1010. In some implementations, the active antenna 1010can be configured to receive radio frequency (RF) waves associated withprogramming (e.g., shows, news, sporting events, etc.) provided by oneor more broadcast stations located within a predetermined proximity ofthe active antenna 1010. In this manner, the active antenna 1010 canreceive programming provided by local broadcast stations.

In some implementations, the active antenna 1010 can include a firstantenna 1012 and a first parasitic element 1014 positioned adjacent tothe first antenna 1012. As shown, the first parasitic element 1014 canbe coupled to ground GND via a first shunt switch 1015. The firstparasitic element 1014 can be configured to reradiate RF waves. In thismanner, the first parasitic element 1014 can modify a radiation patternassociated with the first antenna 1012.

In some implementations, the active antenna 1010 can include a secondantenna 1016 and a second parasitic element 1018 positioned adjacent tothe second antenna 1016. As shown, the second parasitic element 101 canbe coupled to ground GND via a second shunt switch 1019. The secondparasitic element 1018 can be configured to reradiate RF waves. In thismanner, the second parasitic element 1018 can modify a radiation patternassociated with the second antenna 1016. As will be discussed below inmore detail, the active antenna 1010 is configurable to operate in oneof the plurality of modes, with each mode having a distinct radiationpattern.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include a switchingdevice 1020 that is coupled to active antenna 1010 via one or moreconductors. More specifically, the switching device 1020 can be coupledto the first antenna 1012 via a first conductor 1022. In this manner, RFwaves received at the first antenna 1012 can be provided to the switch1020. Additionally, the switching device 1020 can be coupled to thesecond antenna 1016 via a second conductor 1024. In this manner, RFwaves received at the second antenna 1016 can be provided to the switch1020. As will be discussed in more detail, the switch 1020 is movablebetween at least two positions to selectively couple the active antenna1010 to one or more components of the antenna system 1000.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include asupplemental tuner 1030 that is distinct from a primary tuner (notshown) associated with the media device 1100. For instance, the primarytuner can include a set-top box that is coupled to the media device 1100via a cable (e.g., a coaxial cable). Alternatively, the primary tunercan be integral with media device 1100. The supplemental tuner 1030 canbe configured to process one or more RF waves received via the activeantenna 1010. More specifically, the supplemental tuner 1030 candetermine a receive signal strength indicator (RSSI) value associatedwith the one or more RF waves.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include ademodulator 1040 that is communicatively coupled to the supplementaltuner 1030. The demodulator 1040 can be configured to demodulate one ormore signals 1032 received from the supplemental tuner 1030. In thismanner, the demodulator 1040 can extract data from the RF waves receivedat the active antenna 1010. More specifically, the demodulator 1040 canextract one or more video signals indicative of programming (e.g.,sports, news, sitcoms, etc.) provided by one or more local broadcastingstations. As will be discussed below in more detail, the antenna system1000 can include one or more controllers 1050 configured to processsignals 1032 output by the supplemental tuner 1030, signals 1042 outputby the demodulator 1040, or both.

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can correspond to anysuitable processor-based device, including one or more computingdevices. For instance, FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of suitablecomponents that may be included within the controller 1050. As shown inFIG. 11, the controller 1050 can include a processor 1052 and associatedmemory 1054 configured to perform a variety of computer-implementedfunctions (e.g., performing the methods, steps, calculations and thelike disclosed herein). As used herein, the term “processor” refers notonly to integrated circuits referred to in the art as being included ina computer, but also refers to a controller, microcontroller, amicrocomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array(FPGA), and other programmable circuits. Additionally, the memory 1054can include memory element(s) including, but not limited to, computerreadable medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer readablenon-volatile medium (e.g., flash memory), and/or other suitable memoryelements or combinations thereof.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 11, the controller 1050 can include acommunications interface 1056. In some implementations, thecommunications interface 1056 can include associated electroniccircuitry that is used to send and receive data. As such, thecommunications interface 1056 of the controller 1050 can be used tocommunicate with at least one of the supplemental tuner 1030 and thedemodulator 1040. In this manner, the controller 1050 can receive one ormore signals (e.g., output) from the supplemental tuner 1030, thedemodulator 1040, or both. In addition, the communications interface1056 can be used to communicate with the switching device 1020. In thismanner, the controller 1050 can control operation of the switchingdevice 1020.

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can configure the activeantenna 1010 based, at least in part, on user-input received via aninput device 1060. The input device 1060 can include a mechanicalinterface (e.g., press-button) of the antenna system 1000. Alternativelyor additionally, the input device 1060 can include a mobile device(e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, television remote, etc.). It shouldbe appreciated that the input device 1060 can be communicatively coupledto the controller via any suitable wired and/or wireless (e.g., Wifi,Bluetooth Low Energy, etc.) communication link.

In alternative implementations, the controller 1050 can be configured todetermine the selected mode of operation for the active antenna 1010 atpredetermined intervals of time. For instance, the controller 1050 canbe configured to determine the selected mode of operation every sixtyseconds. It should be appreciated, however, that the controller 1050 canbe configured to determine the selected mode of operation for any giveninterval of time.

Prior to the controller 1050 determining the selected mode of operationfor the active antenna 1050, the active antenna 1010 is coupled to thesupplemental tuner 1030 via the switching device 1020. In someimplementations, the controller 1050 can generate a control actionassociated with moving the switching device 1020 to a first position tocouple the active antenna 1010 to the supplemental tuner 1030. In thismanner, the supplemental tuner 1030 can receive the RF waves capturedvia the active antenna 1010. Additionally, the supplemental tuner 1030can provide an output 1032 to the controller 1050. In some embodiments,the output 1032 can include one or more metrics indicative ofperformance of the active antenna 1010 in each mode of the plurality ofmodes. Alternatively or additionally, the demodulator 1040 can providean output 1042 to the controller 1050. Similar to the output 1032 ofsupplemental tuner 1030, the output 1042 of the demodulator 1040 caninclude one or more metrics indicative of performance of the activeantenna 1010 in each mode of the plurality of modes.

In some implementations, the metrics can include an RSSI value for oneor more channels detected in each of the modes. Alternatively oradditionally, the metric(s) can include at least one of asignal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a magnitude error ratio (MER), a bit errorrate (BER), a block error rate (BLER), or a packet error rate (PER).

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can determine the selectedmode of operation for the active antenna 1010 based, at least in part,on the one or more metrics. More specifically, the controller 1050 canbe configured to determine a channel quality indicator (CQI) for one ormore channels received during each mode of the plurality of modes. Thecontroller 1050 can, as discussed above with reference to FIG. 8, befurther configured to assign a weighting factor for the channel(s) basedon a variety of factors. For example, a first channel having a CQI thatis greater than a threshold value (e.g., minimum value required to viewthe channel) can be assigned a lesser weight compared to a secondchannel having a CQI that is below the threshold value. The controller1050 can be configured to compute a mode score for each mode of theplurality of modes of operation for the active antenna 810. Morespecifically, the mode can be based, at least in part, on the CQI forthe channels.

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can, as discussed abovewith reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, be configured to determine the selectedmode based on the mode scores determined for each of the plurality ofmodes. More specifically, the controller 1050 can determine the selectedmode as corresponding to a mode having the highest mode score. Once thecontroller 1050 determines the selected mode, the controller 1050 canconfigure the active antenna 1010 to operate in the selected mode. Morespecifically, the controller 1050 can generate one or more controlactions associated with configuring the active antenna 1010 in theselected mode.

After the controller 1050 determines the selected mode of operation forthe active antenna 1010, the controller 1050 can, in someimplementations, generate a control action associated with moving theswitch 1020 from a first position to a second position. Morespecifically, the active antenna 1010 can be decoupled (e.g., notcoupled) from the supplemental tuner 1030 when the switch 1020 is in thesecond position. In this manner, the supplemental tuner 1030 can nolonger receive RF signals via the active antenna 1010. It should beappreciated that the active antenna 1010 can be coupled to the mediadevice 1100 when the switch 1020 is in the second position. In thismanner, the media device 1100 can receive RF signals via active antenna1010.

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can be configured to orderthe modes of operation of the active antenna 1010 based on the number ofchannels that can be viewed within each mode or other metric indicativeof quality and/or distinct channels. For instance, the modes can beordered to maximize a delta Δ between the number of channels and/ornumber of different channels viewable within adjacent modes. Thisconcept is illustrated below in Table 1:

Mode Ordering 1 2 3 4 3 channels 2 channels 4 channels 1 channel

As shown above in Table 1, 3 channels can be viewed when the activeantenna 1010 is operating in the first mode, and 2 channels can beviewed when the active antenna 1010 is operating in the second mode.Additionally, 4 channels can be viewed when the active antenna 1010 isoperating in the third mode, and 1 channel can be viewed when the activeantenna 1010 is operating in the fourth mode. As such, the controller1050 can be configured to order the modes to maximize the delta Δbetween the number of channels viewable between adjacent modes. Forinstance, the delta Δ between the number of channels viewable in modes 1and 3 is less compared to the delta Δ between the number of channelsviewable in modes 2 and 3. Additionally the delta Δ between the numberof channels viewable in modes 1 and 3 is less compared to the delta Δbetween the number of channels viewable in modes 3 and 4. Accordingly,the controller 1050 can be configured to order the modes so that mode 3is positioned adjacent to modes 2 and 4. More specifically, the modescan be ordered so that mode 3 is positioned between modes 2 and 4. Inthis manner, the delta Δ between the number of channels viewable betweenadjacent modes can maximized.

In some implementations, the controller 1050 can cycle through the modesin response to user-input received via the input device 1060. Forinstance, if the selected mode of operation corresponds to Mode 3, thecontroller 1050 can reconfigure the active antenna 1010 in Mode 4 inresponse to receiving user-input via the input device 1060. The delta Δbetween the number of channels viewable in Mode 3 versus Mode 4 is 3channels, which is greater than the delta Δ between Mode 3 versus Modes1 or 2. If additional user-input is received, the controller 1050 canreconfigure the active antenna 1010 in Mode 1. The delta Δ between thenumber of channels viewable in Mode 4 versus Mode 1 is 2 channels, whichis greater than the delta Δ between Mode 4 versus Modes 2.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include anamplifier 1070 coupled between the switch 1020 and the media device1100. In this manner, RF signals provided to the media device 1100 whenthe switch 1020 is in the second position can be amplified. It should beappreciated that the amplifier 1070 can include any suitable type ofamplifier configured to boost a signal strength of the RF signals. Forinstance, the amplifier 1070 can include a low-noise amplifier.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include a splitterdevice 1072 coupled between the amplifier 1070 and the media device1100. More specifically, the splitter device 1072 can be configured tosplit a signal received from the amplifier 1070. In someimplementations, the splitter device 1072 can split the signal into afirst signal and a second signal. The first signal can be provided tothe media device 1100. In contrast, the second signal can be provided tovarious electrical components of the antenna system 1000. In someimplementations, the first signal is a power signal. More specifically,a first portion of the power signal can be comprised of RF power. Incontrast, the second portion of the power signal can be comprised ofdirect current (DC) power. In some implementations, the second signal isa power signal comprised of DC power.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include apositioning system 1080 configured to determine a geographical locationof the antenna system 1000. It should be appreciated that any suitablepositioning system 1080 can be used to determine the geographicallocation of the antenna system 1000. For instance, in someimplementations, the positioning system 1080 can include a globalpositioning system. In some implementations, the controller 1050 can beconfigured to determine the selected mode of operation for the activeantenna 1010 based, at least in part, on the geographical location ofthe antenna system 1000.

In some implementations, the antenna system 1000 can include a motionsensor 1082 configured to determine an orientation of the antenna system1000. It should be appreciated that any suitable type of motion sensor1082 can be used to determine the orientation of the antenna system1000. For instance, in some implementations, the motion sensor 1082 caninclude an accelerometer configured to determine the orientation of theactive antenna 1010. In some implementations, the controller 1050 can beconfigured to determine the selected mode of operation for the activeantenna 1010 based, at least in part, on the orientation of the activeantenna 1010.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a flow diagram of a method for configuring anantenna system for use with a media device is provided according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 1200 may beimplemented using, for instance, the antenna system discussed above withreference to FIG. 10. FIG. 12 depicts steps performed in a particularorder for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinaryskill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understandthat various steps of the method 1200 may be adapted, modified,rearranged, performed simultaneously or modified in various ways withoutdeviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

At (1202), the method 1200 includes coupling the active antenna to thesupplemental tuner via the switching device. In some implementations,the one or more controllers can issue a command to the switch over awired or wireless communication link. More specifically, the command cancause the switch to move to the first position. In this manner, thecontroller(s) can control operation of the switch.

In some implementations, coupling the active antenna to the supplementaltuner can occur in response to a detected event. For instance, theactive antenna can be coupled to the supplemental tuner via theswitching device once every sixty seconds. Alternatively, the activeantenna can be coupled to the supplemental tuner via the switchingdevice in response to a detected event. For example, the detected eventcan include user-input received via an input device. In this manner, theactive antenna can be coupled to the supplemental tuner via theswitching device each time user-input is provided to change thebroadcast channel to be displayed via the media device. Alternatively oradditionally, the detected event can include receiving data indicatingthe selected mode is no longer optimal for the channel being viewed viathe media device.

At (1204), the method 1200 includes obtaining one or more metrics whilethe switch is in the first position (e.g., while the active antenna iscoupled to the supplemental tuner). More specifically, the metric(s) canindicate operating performance of the active antenna while operating ineach of the plurality of modes. In some implementations, the metric(s)can include at least one of a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a magnitudeerror ratio (MER), a bit error rate (BER), a block error rate (BLER), ora packet error rate (PER).

At (1206), the method 1200 includes determining a selected mode ofoperation for the active antenna based, at least in part on themetric(s) obtained at (1204). In some implementations, the controller ofthe antenna system can, as discussed above with reference to FIGS. 7 and8, be configured to determine a CQI for each for one or more channelsreceived during each mode of the plurality of modes. More specifically,the controller can determine the CQI based, at least in part, on themetric(s) obtained at (1204). The controller can be further configuredto compute a mode score for each mode of the plurality of modes based,at least in part, on the CQI for the channel or channels received duringeach mode. In this manner, the controller can be configured to determinethe selected mode based on a comparison the scores computed for each ofthe plurality of modes. For instance, in some implementations, thecontroller can be configured to determine the selected mode ascorresponding to mode having the highest mode score.

At (1208), the method 1200 includes configuring the active antenna tooperate in the selected mode. In some implementations, the controllercan generate one or more control actions associated with configuring theactive antenna in the selected mode.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a schematic of an active antenna 1300 isprovided according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Asshown, the active antenna 1300 includes a substrate 1310 and a groundplane 1320 formed on the substrate 1310. In some implementations, theactive antenna 1300 includes a first antenna 1330. As shown, the firstantenna 1330 can include a first parasitic element 1332 positionedadjacent to the first antenna 1330. In some implementations, the firstantenna 1330 can include a first switch 1334 coupled between the firstparasitic element 1332 and the ground plane 1320. More specifically, thefirst switch 1334 can include a multi-port switch configured toopen-circuit, short-circuit, or reactively load the first parasiticelement 1332.

In some implementations, the antenna 1300 can include a second antenna1340. As shown, the second antenna 1340 can include a second parasiticelement 1342 positioned adjacent to the second antenna 1340. In someimplementations, the second antenna 1340 can include a second switch1344 coupled between the second parasitic element 1342 and the groundplane 1320. More specifically, the second switch 1344 can include amulti-port switch configured to open-circuit, short-circuit, orreactively load the second parasitic element 1342.

In some implementations, both the first switch 1334 and the secondswitch 1344 can be coupled to a controller (not shown). In someembodiments, the controller can correspond to the controller 1050 of theantenna system 1000 discussed above with reference to FIG. 10. Asdiscussed above, the controller can determine a selected mode for theantenna 1300 and can configure the antenna 1300 (e.g., the first antenna1330, the second antenna 1340, or both) to operate in the selected mode.More specifically, the controller can generate one or more controlactions associated with configuring the first and second switches 1334,1344 to configure the antenna 1300 in the selected mode.

In some implementations, an arm 1336 of the first antenna 1330 can beconnected to an arm 1346 of the second antenna 1340. As shown, the arm1336 of the first antenna 1330 can connect with the arm 1346 of thesecond antenna 1340 at an edge 1312 of the substrate 1310 that isopposite an edge 1314 at which the ground plane 1320 is located.

While the present subject matter has been described in detail withrespect to specific example embodiments thereof, it will be appreciatedthat those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of theforegoing may readily produce alterations to, variations of, andequivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the presentdisclosure is by way of example rather than by way of limitation, andthe subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion of suchmodifications, variations and/or additions to the present subject matteras would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. An antenna system comprising: a multi-mode activeantenna configurable to operate in a plurality of modes associated witha ultra-high frequency (UHF) band or a very-high frequency (VHF) band,each of the plurality of modes having a distinct radiation pattern; asupplemental tuner that is separate from a primary tuner associated witha media device; and a directional coupler configured to bifurcate asignal received from the multi-mode active antenna into a firstbifurcated signal provided to the primary tuner and a second bifurcatedsignal provided to the supplemental tuner.
 22. The antenna system ofclaim 21, further comprising: a low noise amplifier coupled between themulti-mode active antenna and the directional coupler.
 23. The antennasystem of claim 21, further comprising: a controller configured to:obtain the second bifurcated signal while the multi-mode active antennais configured in each of the plurality of modes; process the secondbifurcated signal for each of the plurality of modes to determine asignal metric for each of the plurality of modes; and determine one ofthe plurality of modes as a selected mode for the multi-modal activeantenna based, at least in part, on the signal metric.
 24. The antennasystem of claim 23, wherein the signal metric comprises at least one ofreceive power (RP), signal to noise ratio (SNR),signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio (SNIR), magnitude error ratio(MER), error vector magnitude (EVM), bit error rate (BER), or packeterror rate (PER).
 25. The antenna system of claim 21, furthercomprising: a demodulator coupled to the supplemental tuner, thedemodulator configured to demodulate the second bifurcated signal. 26.The antenna system of claim 21, wherein the multi-mode active antennacomprises a first antenna and a second antenna, the first antennaconnected to the second antenna.
 27. The antenna system of claim 26,wherein the multi-mode active antenna further comprises: a firstparasitic element positioned closer to the first antenna than the secondantenna; and a second parasitic element positioned closer to the secondantenna than the first antenna.
 28. The antenna system of claim 21,further comprising: an accelerometer configured to obtain dataindicative of an orientation of the multi-mode active antenna.
 29. Theantenna system of claim 21, wherein the media device comprises atelevision.
 30. The antenna system of claim 21, further comprising:radio-frequency (RF) circuitry comprising at least one of switches,inductors, capacitors, tunable inductors, tunable capacitors, or solidstate devices.